When I think of my experience of learning French at school, I have particular memories and a general feeling of negativity. I remember one French teacher more than others: her high pitched voice, her tendency to become irritated easily, her inability to look you in the eye. She was one of those people who closes … Continue reading Making a good impression

As I write, I am on my way back from the Lake District with a group of colleagues from my school. We spent our weekend walking in the mountains. It was cold, boggy, very windy and altogether wonderful. I find human company taxing at times. I am not prone to make friends at work (or … Continue reading Winterland

We set out on day three, full of expectation. The peaks and valleys ahead were laid out on the map, but the metaphorical ones were to be discovered as we walked. Our group, four adults and nine soon to be, stretched out on the rocky path. The early morning sun lifted our spirits and helped … Continue reading The Peaks

Many moons ago my Dad bumped in to my old headteacher. He asked after my brother (a ‘good’ student). My Dad told him how he was getting on, then mentioned that his other son (me) was starting his teacher training. The head of my former school laughed. “He’ll never be a teacher”, he guffawed. He … Continue reading Potential